Article/photos by Samo Jossefa:
From May 6 to 8, 2025, Gorongosa National Park, through its Youth Clubs program, held a training for 28 Biology and Chemistry teachers in Cheringoma. The group of teachers consisted of 4 women and 24 men, from the districts of Cheringoma, Gorongosa, Nhamatanda, Muanza, Maringue and Dondo. The main aim of the training was to improve the teachers’ skills in the safe and efficient handling of laboratory equipment, in order to prepare them to inspire and educate future generations of scientists in their schools.
The workshop was coordinated by Alfredo Jochoma, manager of the Youth Clubs program, and Raul Chomela, biologist and manager of the molecular and genetic laboratory at Gorongosa National Park, and covered topics such as using microscopes and carrying out laboratory experiments. During the workshop, a remarkable moment occurred when teacher Cristóvão Felizardo João, from Maringue, asked: “How can we preserve species like grasshoppers and bats for future generations?”. This reflection demonstrates the educators’ commitment to tackling crucial issues such as biodiversity conservation in the classroom.
Eduardo Bonga also stressed the importance of taking advantage of learning and teaching opportunities, pointing out that “we shouldn’t make a draft of our lives”. He stressed the importance of training to arouse students’ interest in science and train future scientists. “This training in handling laboratory equipment is an opportunity for teachers to acquire skills and contribute to building a more promising future for science education in Mozambique.” Bonga said.
